Committee approves amendment to criminalize interference with workers restoring critical services during emergencies

The committee took up S.808, a bill intended to protect workers restoring critical services during a state of emergency. Sponsor said the bill would criminalize willful interference with utility and repair crews — making harassment or threats a misdemeanor (up to 30 days or a $500 fine) and elevating assault or tampering with an electrical utility to felony conduct.

The subcommittee narrowed the bill’s scope to specific categories — electric, gas, water/sewer, road/highway repair and telephone/cell/satellite/Internet service — removing broader language about services for homes or commercial properties. John Frick of the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina told the committee crews sometimes face threats, people attempting to reconnect lines unsafely, and other conduct that can endanger workers and delay restorations.

Lawmakers questioned how existing easements and property rights intersect with the proposed enforcement; witnesses said easements generally allow crews access but that encounters can escalate. The committee adopted the technical subcommittee amendment and reported the bill favorably.